Maria_Stephanos's Blog

Maria, you met a rock star, he met a truly decent woman....God bless you for you outlook on life.

Maria,

You sure did meet a rock star. What a wonderful story and a great act of kindness on your part. Thank You for bringing that story to light.

Hi Maria
I agree with you that Bill is living his dreams, thoughts and desires. As a big sister to a younger brother with Down Syndrome ( much younger by almost 20 years )I am proud of my brother with everyday accomplishments we take for granted. Bill's brother is helping him live his dream and enjoy life the way he knows how. In no way he is being exploited! Bill is just like any one of us!!! I would definately see him in concert!!!

Great story,Maria and Bill was just as lucky to meet you and get a hug too!

Maria, I'm thinking luck has oittoe to do with this. You are the "gold standard" of decency and balance in journalism. "The Peoples Right to Know"....they have an absolute right to know that beauty lives in this world, and that all beauty is built on small kind acts. Bill has clearly contributed this. You have too. You may be "fortunate" (I like that word better), but only becuase you yourslef see beauty in your world. He's definitely part of that beauty.

Maria,

What a wonderful feeling of satisfaction you must have gotten out of doing this story about Bill. You could tell it was genuine and done with feelings from your heart, no script not phony, just honest to goodness sincere reporting on someone special. This is what I love about you, your true feelings coming shining thru on stories like Bills. Keep up the good work!!!! And Happy Mothers Day to someone special like you!!!!

Thank You,
Jovanone

Hi Maria,

That was a great story. I think that those who say this is exploitation are the grumps of the world. We all know one. That person who can't make it thru their day without finding fault in someone or something. Not only did we see how happy Bill's music made him, we also saw the love and support he gets from his fans and family.

I think this story goes hand and hand with the one from last nite about the uncle of the Columbine shooting victim. His message is a simple one. Just show people some compassion and acceptance.

Good job!!
JohnnyR
Haverhill, MA

As John and Bill's sister, I can't express how much I am proud of both of them, Keep on rockin' guys, I love you both!!!!

To all of those who think that Bill is being exploited, I only have 2 words: American Idol.

Maria, thanks for bringing us further proof that not everyone has to be "normal" to be beautiful. And as for not being able to understand all his lyrics? I've heard (and owned CDs by) metal bands who are a LOT worse!

Bill is an amazing person. I have had the pleasure to film him a few times, and since I know a few members of his band I have been able to get to know him over the last few years. He is an inspiring person. He's also a joy to film, as he is completely uninhibited in front of the camera.

Everyone should see him perform live. Maria, your team did a great job capturing his performance, but I imagine you'd agree that nothing compares to seeing it in person. He's a fantastic rock n roll front man.